Huntsville Police officers honored at National TOP COPS Awards for heroic hostage rescue
Published on May 13, 2025
Sgt. Kevin Lambert and Officer Jason Toney of the Huntsville Police Department (HPD) received national recognition at the 32nd annual TOP COPS Awards dinner in Washington D.C. for their heroic actions that helped save the lives of a woman and her two-year-old child during a hostage situation last August.
Hosted by the National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO), the awards ceremony honors officers from federal, state, county, tribal and local agencies across the country who have demonstrated acts of bravery above and beyond the call of duty.
Lambert and Toney were selected as Top Cops by NAPO, an award given to only 10 law enforcement agencies nationwide. They were the sole recipients from an Alabama agency, selected from hundreds of nominations submitted by fellow officers and reviewed by two national committees of law enforcement professionals.
The event highlighted the critical decision-making and courage by both officers on Aug. 24, 2024, when a 911 call reported a woman and her toddler being held at gunpoint. As the standoff unfolded, Lambert encouraged the woman to flee with her child when an opportunity arose. As she ran for safety, the armed offender opened fire, striking her twice. Toney standing guard at the front entrance, returned fire and prevented further harm to the woman and her child.
“Sgt. Lambert and Officer Toney’s quick thinking, calm under pressure and bravery were pivotal in saving lives that day,” HPD Police Chief Kirk Giles said. “They exemplify the integrity and commitment we value in this department.”
The victim has recovered from her physical injuries, but her emotional healing continues. In a gesture that speaks volumes about their compassion, Lambert and Toney have remained in contact with the family, even delivering Christmas presents to the woman and her child.
“This was an incredibly difficult and dangerous situation, but both officers didn’t hesitate,” Chief Giles said. “Their courage and dedication extend far beyond the call of duty, making them true Top Cops.”